Getting your windows installed? You probably have gotten some quotes and have realized that the prices are a lot higher than you expected.
There are so many parties that are involved in the process and each party needs to make money
- Manufacturer produces product and sells to a retailer like Lowe’s/Home Depot
- Retailer sells product to a contractor
- Contractor hires window installer
- Finally the contractor sells an installed product to the consumer
The other problem with this scenario is that there are too many hands in the pot! Also when something goes wrong everyone points their finger at each other. The manufacturer will blame the installer, the installer will blame the manufacturer. In the end as the consumer you are frustrated.
One Stop Shop
There is hope! By having the manufacturer directly install the windows you are cutting out the middle man thus having one party to blame for any misfortunes that may occur. It also comes with the benefit of a lower price because there are less hands in the pot. Climate Windows is an example of this type of model.
Cut the middle man completely
If you are changing a lot of windows, it may be possible to deal with the manufacture directly (you probably need some in like a friend). In this case you can buy your windows at a price that is significantly reduced. Also hire your own window installer to do the installation. Not a contractor that will hire a window installer but a window installer. Sometimes the manufacturer will even recommend someone in the area that you live in. This will lower your cost but comes with some risk. If the manufacturer goes under or the installer disappears your can forget your warranty.
Window Guru 